United Way closing in on ’14 goal

January 9, 2014

STEUBENVILLE - The United Way of Jefferson County's 2014 campaign is nearly at the 77 percent mark today after several major contributions were announced Wednesday.

Officials with the local United Way office announced the latest numbers during a campaign report luncheon at the Hellenic Hall.

"As we entered today, we were at the 67 percent mark with $295,503.50 in campaign pledges. Those major donations came from the Trinity Health System campaign and the Jefferson County Department of Job and Family Services from the employees. We received $10,012 from the American Electric Power Cardinal Plant and a $5,751.87 contribution from the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities as well as a $4,703.58 from the Steubenville city employees," announced Jody Goff , United Way administrative assistant.

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MAKING PROGRESS — Officials with the United Way of Jefferson County announced a nearly 10 percent increase in campaign donations Wednesday during a report luncheon held at Hellenic Hall. Jody Goff of the United Way announced the 2014 campaign was at the 76.9 percent mark after the organization received several major donations this week. Goff colored the new mark on the United Way thermometer while Rich DeLuca, United Way treasurer, left, and Anthony Mougianis, 2014 campaign chairman, watch. - Dave Gossett

That's when Anthony Mougianis, 2014 campaign chairman, took over.

"We have new pledges today that take us to the 76.9 percent mark on our $440,000 goal thanks to the contributions from the First Energy Foundation and the First Energy employee contributions, Voto Manufacturing, employees of Jefferson County, First Choice America credit union employees, various anonymous donations, the Jefferson County Community Action Council and Apollo Cleaning," Mougianis stated.

"Our executive eirector, Beth Rupert-Warren, can't be here today. Her mother passed away Tuesday morning and she is making final arrangements. We are carrying this report luncheon on today with a heavy heart and our thoughts and prayers are with her," remarked Mougianis.

"I look around here today and see so many volunteers who work so hard every year for others. During these times of economic tightness, it is sometimes hard to collect donations. We often don't think of the hard problems until those problems affect us. We have something to eat and we have a warm home. But we need to continue thinking about those in need," said Mougianis.

"This campaign is about giving back and paying forward. Our United Way does so many great things. I agreed to be a campaign chairman for a second straight year because of Beth and her excitement and commitment. Last year, I worked with three different executive directors, and when Beth arrived I was impressed with her drive and dedication," continued Mougianis.

Board President Dave France credited the staff and campaign volunteers.

"Without our volunteers and staff we couldn't reach our goal every year. I know Jefferson County is a great place and I know we will make our goal again this year," stated France.